Glenn McGrath Raises Concerns About Mohammed Shami’s Fitness; Asks Shami to Learn from James Anderson

March 10, 2024 0 401

Glenn McGrath cited the example of James Anderson as a role model for Mohammed Shami to learn from.

Legendary fast bowler Glenn McGrath expressed that India’s current pace attack, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, makes a strong roster. However, he raised concerns regarding Shami’s fitness levels suggesting that it might be some time before a new generation takes over.

“We have to wait and see the next generation coming through. (Jasprit) Bumrah has still got a bit to go, (Mohammed) Shami is a little older, and (Mohammed) Siraj has been around for a little while but still has plenty left,” McGrath said to PTI.

McGrath further pointed to James Anderson, 41, as a prime example of longevity and success in fast bowling, noting Anderson’s recent milestone of 700 Test wickets.

“It’s tough, but the one thing that bowlers like him (Shami) possess is experience. He’s been around for a long time and is an exceptional bowler. But, as you get older, you still need motivation to train hard, prepare and get out there and perform. Look at someone like James Anderson, who is 41, taking 700 Test wickets and still bowling well. So, you can still be at the top of your game. But as you get older, being a fast bowler it is tough on the body, and it can certainly have an impact in the longer run,” he added.

Shami’s recent struggles have highlighted this point. Reportedly, he played the entire last ICC tournament with an ankle injury, managing the pain with injections. Shami was expected to return for the India-England Test series but had to undergo Achilles tendon surgery, ruling him out of the IPL 2024 as well.